Central to the success of our system of government is Congress. The framers of the Constitution viewed this branch as the most important. Representing the will of the people, and the sovereignty of the states, it would be strong enough to regulate the nations' trade and provide the defense without abusing its power.

Today, the role of Congress has expanded beyond the founders' wildest imagination. Many critics claim that Congress no longer works. They believe it is controlled by special interest, more concerned with member's perks than with the nation's best interest, and bogged down in partisan politics.

In this edition of Bill of Rights in Action, we conclude our series on America's basic governmental and political institutions with a historical and contemporary look at the legislative branch.